Moonsong Glacier be the moth to my flame

The narrow-eyed assessment lasted another moment longer. Truthfully, the panther was considering whether it might be better to chase her off now — but the unease he felt was surely unfounded. She was hardly more than a girl, and motherhood was a noble ambition. He would wait and see. Perhaps she would prove herself warmer than she first seemed.

"Go in peace," he said at last, dipping his head in acceptance. "I will be near, if you have need of me."

The panther departed — but he would be keeping an eye on the girl.